Argentina to pause matches in 10th minute to honour Lionel Messi
AFA will stop matches at the 10th minute across categories for a minute of applause after Messi’s international retirement
Argentina has organised a national tribute for Lionel Messi that will briefly interrupt matches across the country: the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has instructed that games be stopped in the 10th minute of the first half so players, staff and fans can observe a minute of applause for the captain. The announcement followed Messi's decision to end his international career.
The first instance of the tribute took place during the Copa Argentina clash between Boca Juniors and Vélez. When the match clock reached the 10th minute, play was paused and the crowd at the Mario Alberto Kempes stadium rose to applaud Messi's era with the national team.
Nationwide pause across all formats
AFA said the measure will be applied during the coming weekend to matches in all categories and disciplines: men’s and women’s football, futsal and beach soccer. Matches will be stopped at the 10th minute of the first half to allow for the minute of applause.
On stadium big screens AFA will show a specially prepared video. Organisers expect stands to fill with applause, chants, flags and songs dedicated to the Argentine captain as the country honours his contribution.
Messi finished his national-team career as Argentina's all-time record-holder. He played 207 matches for the Albiceleste and scored 125 goals. His years with the national side delivered the trophies Argentina had long sought: the Copa América in 2021, the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and another Copa América in 2024.
Photo: press material from the event
